Spurs Sign Free-agent Robinson

NBA - In the Paint

April 6, 2005

Former all-star forward Glenn Robinson signed a free-agent contract with the San Antonio Spurs. Robinson, who hasn't played in more than a year because of injuries, was cut by New Orleans in early March. The Hornets acquired him in a late February trade with Philadelphia. The Spurs have struggled offensively at times since star forward Tim Duncan (right ankle sprain) and reserve guard Devin Brown (lower back strain) went on the injured list in late March. The 6-foot-7 Robinson was the league's No. 1 draft pick out of Purdue in 1994.

MAVERICKS, JOHNSON AGREE

A few weeks after taking over as coach of the Dallas Mavericks, Avery Johnson has agreed to a contract that keeps him in charge the next four seasons. The deal, expected to be finalized by the end of the week, should end speculation of more changes -- either team owner Mark Cuban hiring someone else or Johnson using his lack of a contract to seek another job or as leverage to get a higher salary.

LEWIS COULD BE READY FOR PLAYOFFS

Tests on Seattle SuperSonics all-star forward Rashard Lewis' right foot showed no serious structural or ligament damage, and confirmed a deep bone bruise diagnosed last week. Sonics General Manager Rick Sund said it's still not certain when Lewis can rejoin the team, but the 6-10 swingman is expected to be available for the playoffs.

NETS' VAUGHN HAS FOOT SURGERY

New Jersey Nets guard Jacque Vaughn had surgery to repair a broken bone in his right foot. Vaughn, who sustained the season-ending injury during the first quarter of the 103-102 loss to the Orlando Magic on Saturday, had a screw inserted into his foot during surgery. The eight-year veteran has started 34 games this season.

LAKERS SHELVE MIHM, ACTIVATE DIVAC

The slumping Los Angeles Lakers placed center Chris Mihm on the injured list because of a sprained right ankle, and activated center Vlade Divac. Mihm sprained his ankle late in the second quarter of Saturday night's 95-94 loss at San Antonio. He will miss at least five games. Mihm is averaging 9.6 points, 6.7 rebounds and 1.5 blocked shots, all career highs. Divac, 37, was signed last summer but has played in only eight games.

SHAQ OUT WITH SORE STOMACH

Shaquille O'Neal missed Miami's game against Chicago with a stomach ailment, marking the fifth game the Heat's all-star center has missed this season because of injury or illness. Michael Doleac started in O'Neal's place. O'Neal certainly won't look back on this year's season series with the Bulls fondly; he fell awkwardly over Chicago forward Othella Harrington early in the teams' last meeting Feb. 22, spraining his knee and missing four games.